Skip to content

Meet Student Commencement Speaker Chris Dexter

Chris will graduate from the Associate Degree Nursing program

student speaker sitting at table and smiling

When Chris Dexter steps up to the podium at FVTC’s Winter Commencement in December, he’ll bring with him a story of service, perseverance and a passion for healthcare.

Chris’s journey started more than 20 years ago when he joined the U.S. Navy Reserve as a Corpsman. For 12 years—including 18 months on active duty—he cared for service members both at home and overseas. After leaving the military, Chris returned to Northeast Wisconsin and spent 15 years working in security.

Chris’s interest in healthcare never faded, but balancing work and family made going back to school seem impossible. When his wife discovered FVTC’s part-time Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program, Chris knew he had found his educational path. He began general education courses in summer 2021 and entered core nursing classes in summer 2023.

While pursuing his degree, Chris worked at Theda Clark Regional Medical Center in Neenah, first as an Emergency Department Technician and later as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) after passing the required exam. After graduation, he will continue serving patients as an ER nurse.

Chris credits FVTC’s part-time ADN program for fostering a close-knit, supportive learning environment that helped him and his classmates succeed.

Related Articles

Read more
Thursday | January 29, 2026

Student Spotlight: Joshua Crismon

Career Program: Occupational Therapy AssistantOriginally From: West Jordan, UtahCurrent Residence: AppletonYear Started at FVTC: 2024 Why did you choose this career program? It started as just a result from an interest profile assessment, but as I looked deeper into the field, I realized that it was an opportunity to teach, support and serve others. I have always had the desire to

Read more
Wednesday | January 14, 2026

Student Spotlight: Jeff Westby

Career Program: Criminal JusticeOriginally From: North Fond du LacCurrent Residence: North Fond du LacYear Started at FVTC: Spring 2025 Why did you choose this career program? I was unhappy in my previous career and decided to make a change. Coming from a family of public servants, mostly firefighters, I felt the need to serve and after discussions with my family policing

Read more
Thursday | December 18, 2025

Chris Dexter Proves It’s Never Too Late to Follow Your Calling

When student commencement speaker Chris Dexter took the podium to speak to the Class of 2025, he brought with him a message of perseverance, inspiration and a touch of humor. Chris, a graduate of the part-time Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) program, shared his unique experiences and perspective as a student returning to college in his 40s. Chris’s